Replacement Refs

4 thoughts on “Replacement Refs”

1. I’m not really sure why the “regular” professional refs are striking, and haven’t taken the time to do my research. It is clear that the league and ref’s association need to continue their negotiations. I will say, however, that I do feel bad for the replacement refs, a little bit, anyway. They have been thrown into a difficult situation. State high school and college game rules and regs, are much different than NFL rules and regulations. While there is, I would guess, a certain expectation that the replacement refs would be tested on their knowledge of the professional game – there has to be something said for “being in the heat of the moment.” I give them credit. I don’t know that I could stand on the sideline, in the end zone, behind the offense or defense, at a professional football game – with a whistle in my mouth. Knowing that I could potentially be taken out by a 300-pound lineman. I’d probably choke on my whistle. I wish them all the luck in the world, for however long they will be calling professional games this season, and pray that they will remain unbiased, focused, and diplomatic in their judgement calls.

2. Good Morning from Omaha,

   All the bad mouthing these replacement refs are getting on ESPN is setting them up for failure.ONe network even has a former NFL official watching the games, critiquing every play and interjecting his opinions on every call.

   The NFL officials miss calls every game. These “replacement” officials are going to miss a call or two every day just like the “professional” officials do. The speed of the game is usually cited as the reason these officials will miss calls. The refs who are on strike/holding out are not supermen. They don’t see everything on every play despite their best efforts.

   the nfl is a billion dollar industry. The regular officials get paid fairly well on a per game basis after all it is only part time work. You would think with all the money the league generates they could pay the officials a little better. I heard, and yes this is hearsay, that the professional officials want to earn around $100,000 a year. once again, it is part time work for about 6 months of work. so lets have a little perspective.

   Its not like the officials don’t have “regular” jobs where they are lawyers, dr’s or indian chiefs. They are dedicated to the sport and gladly give up their weekends to participate in the sport they love.

   So far the the replacement refs have missed about the same number of calls as the professionals. Yes they seem to have to debate whatever call they want to make but I guess it is better to slow down the game and get the call correct than to ignore / throw flags at every infraction even in anticipation of a penalty

   give the guys a break and remember if the officials don’t see it, it didn’t happen.

   Strive for excellence, nothing but your best.

   Gene

3. Peg:

   Important Clarification: This is a Lockout, not a strike – this is a situation where the Owners and the League have voiced their disagreement with the current state of the labor relationship and have forced this situation on themselves.

   This league makes billions – with a B – every year. The league is actually wanting to end a retirement plan for the officials and also reduce the pay. And to force the issue, they’ve put the play on the field as fair game.

   I know the replacement refs are trying, but much like a replacement player in past labor stoppages, They just aren’t up to snuff compared to what is out there. When we watch pro sports – especially a league like the NFL that has the best players in the world – we want to see the best available, and that includes those that interpret and render judgment calls.

4. Badger,

   Thanks for the information. For what it’s worth, I happen to agree with you. I want to see the best referees out there, too. I do hope there is a resolution found soon, that all parties can agree to.

   Peg